The 46th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race is set to commence on Saturday, 18 October 2025, at 11:00 CEST from Malta’s iconic Grand Harbour. With 119 entries representing over 30 countries, this year’s fleet promises to deliver a spectacular showcase of international sailing talent and Mediterranean maritime culture.
A Diverse and Competitive Fleet
The fleet features a remarkable mix of yachts, from high-performance modern racers to beloved classics. Among the frontrunners are Vismara 80 Luce Guida, Baltic 78 Lupa of the Sea, and the versatile Farr 30 Calypso, skippered by Maltese duo Seb Ripard and Dan Calascione. Key international competitors include Louis Balcaen’s Mills 72 Balthazar from Belgium, Johannes Schwarz’s Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze from Austria, and Frédéric Puzin’s Carkeek 54 Daguet 5 from France.
The race is divided into multiple IRC classes, highlighting both size and experience. IRC 2 features high-tech yachts such as JV62 Whisper (Australia) and Botin 65 Artemis Bleu (UK), while IRC 3 & 4 welcome classics like the historic Stormvogel and the Swan 65 Lunz am Meer, demonstrating the race’s blend of heritage and innovation. The largest class, IRC 6, includes 14 entries, notably featuring young Maltese sailors from the Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation, showcasing the next generation of offshore talent.
How to Watch the Race
Spectators in Malta can enjoy unparalleled views of the start from the Grand Harbour waterfront and historic fortifications. Fans around the world can follow the race via live broadcasts with expert commentary, satellite fleet tracking, and daily live updates from the media team. Social media channels provide behind-the-scenes insights, interviews, and highlights throughout the event.
Why It Matters
The Rolex Middle Sea Race is celebrated for its challenging 606-nautical-mile course, which takes competitors around Sicily, the Strait of Messina, Stromboli, and Pantelleria. Since its founding in 1968, the race has grown into one of the most prestigious offshore events globally, attracting a diverse mix of sailors, from professionals to dedicated amateurs.
The event is not only a competition but also a celebration of Mediterranean sailing culture, where tactical skill, endurance, and camaraderie are tested. The historic backdrop of Valletta’s fortifications, combined with the spectacle of yachts launching into open waters, makes the Rolex Middle Sea Race a must-watch event for sailors, enthusiasts, and visitors alike.
This year’s edition promises intense racing, unforgettable visuals, and a continuation of a rich maritime legacy, reinforcing Malta’s status as a premier hub for international yachting.
